Mirtazapine: What You Need to Know As a Pet Owner

Mirtazapine was developed as an antidepressant for humans, but is used by vets to treat loss of appetite and nausea in household pets. As part of a Paw Nation series providing background about the medical problems your pet may suffer, we spoke to Dr. Carolyn Quagliata, veterinarian and the City Pet Doctor in New York City, to get some insights about the drug. You should always consult your veterinarian before giving medicine or supplements to your pet.

What is mirtazapine?
Mirtazapine is a tetracyclic antidepressant medication which was developed for humans.

Is it a prescription or over-the-counter drug?
It requires a prescription.

What is the most common use of mirtazapine?
In veterinary medicine, mirtazapine is used most commonly for its side effects, which include anti-nausea properties and appetite stimulation. Mirtazapine is used in the treatment of conditions where decreased appetite and nausea are present, such as in the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases, liver or kidney disease. This medication is also used in cases where dogs are experiencing side effects from chemotherapy.

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CarmineC

MY DOG HAS ADENOMA OF THE ADRENAL GLANDS. THESE TUMORS CAUSE BOTH CUSHING'S & PHEOCHROMOCYTOMA .MY DOS WAS ON TRILOSTANE 30MG FOR 7 DAYS WITHOUT ANY THERAPEUTIC EFFECTS. I PUT SAMMY A 17LB SHIH TZU ON 5MG MIRTAZAPINE AND WITHIN 15 MIN A LISTLESS DOG BECAME NORMAL. I USED THE DRUG TO STIMULATE HIS APPETITE AND INADVERTENTLY USED A DRUG THAT HAD ALPHA 2 PRESYNAPTIC & ALPHA 1 PERIPHERAL BLOCKING ACTIVITY AND ALSO INHIBITED ACTH PRODUCTION DUE TO D2 STIMULATION.

My dog, a Silky Terrier, was 19 years old September 3, 2012 (registered with American Kennel Club.) He is very picky with food and some times refused to to eat. My Vet has prescribed 1/4 tablet Mirtazapine every 24 hours. He is eating. My concern is long term effect. He has been taking this medication for 2 months.